Rep. Wendy Thomas - Finding Strawberries

Finding strawberries in uncertain times 

A cancer diagnosis is terrifying. It’s tough to not get sucked into the very dark vortex of fear. 

You need to find a way to keep your balance. To find your ground again. 

I had read an inspirational story about a monk who was able to find joy during a time of fearful chaos. I clung to that message during my cancer surgeries and treatment. I started looking for “strawberries” or joy when I would start to get overwhelmed - a puppy’s kiss, a flower by the side of the road, a brilliant sunset - I found that even though I didn’t know how things were going to turn out, I was still surrounded by strawberries.

I wore strawberry pins, necklaces and earrings, they went with me everywhere. My friends gifted me with strawberries and they even started looking for some strawberries in their own lives. 

I am pleased to say that a friend of mine and local artist - Melissa Hinebauch has painted 2x3 inch strawberries for my campaign.

If you donate $25 or more to my campaign for NH State Rep, I will send you your very own framed hand painted strawberry to remind you that even when things seem horrible joy still abounds.

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Once upon a time, as a man was walking through a forest, he saw a tiger peering out at him from the underbrush. As the man turned to run, he heard the tiger spring after him to give chase.

Barely ahead of the tiger, running for his life, our hero came to the edge of a steep cliff. Clinging onto a strong vine, the man climbed over the cliff edge just as the tiger was about to pounce.

Hanging over the side of the cliff, with the hungry tiger pacing above him, the man looked down and was dismayed to see another tiger, stalking the ravine far below. Just then, a tiny mouse darted out from a crack in the cliff face above him and began to gnaw at the vine.

At that precise moment, the man noticed a patch of wild strawberries growing from a clump of earth near where he dangled. Reaching out, he plucked one. It was plump, and perfectly ripe; warmed by the sunshine.

He popped the strawberry into his mouth. It was perfectly delicious.

The End.

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During this time of upheaval and chaos, remember to keep looking for the strawberries, they are out there, you just have to keep your eyes and your heart open for them.